Bug Identifier
Brown Widow Spider (Egg Sac)
Community identification

Brown Widow Spider (Egg Sac)

Latrodectus geometricus

Order & Family
Araneae: Theridiidae
Size
Egg sacs are approximately 6–10 mm (1/4 to 1/2 inch) in diameter; adult females range from 12–16 mm in body length.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in urban and suburban areas, typically in dark, sheltered spots such as under patio furniture, in corners of garages, or under siding.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; feeds primarily on various insects like crickets, cockroaches, and beetles that get trapped in its tangled, irregular web.

Behavior Patterns

Notable for their 'spiky' or 'tufted' appearance, the egg sacs are highly characteristic. The spiders are sedentary, nocturnal hunters that rarely leave their webs.

Risks & Benefits

While venomous, they are generally less aggressive than Black Widows and inject less venom. Bites can cause pain and redness but are rarely life-threatening. They provide ecological benefit by controlling pest insect populations.